Households to see TV licence fee rise to £180 in 2026
The cost of a TV licence in the UK is set to rise to £180 from 1st of April 2026, in line with inflation.
The adjustment follows the agreed method of linking annual increases to the Consumer Price Index until the end of the current BBC Charter period in 2027.
Under the change, the price of a colour TV licence will increase by £5.50, the equivalent of roughly 46 pence per month. Ministers say the rise is intended to strengthen the BBC’s financial stability, ensuring the corporation can continue to meet its public service obligations. The BBC remains the country’s most widely used media organisation, reaching 94% of UK adults each month.
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The government has stressed that support will remain in place for households facing serious financial pressure. Free licences will continue to be available for people aged over 75 who receive Pension Credit, while concessions for care home residents and those who are severely sight‑impaired also remain unchanged.
The announcement comes as the government continues its Charter Review Green Paper consultation, which is examining potential long‑term funding options for the broadcaster. Officials say the review will help determine a sustainable funding model for the BBC while maintaining affordability and fairness for licence fee payers.
